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U8
18th July, 5-7pm, Riverside Sports Fields
Riverside FC U8 v Durham Athletic U9 3-2
Riverside FC U8 v Riverside Boys FC U8 6-0
Riverside FC U8 v Durham Athletic U8 9-1
Our pre-season preparations continued with a mini tournament at the Riverside Sports Fields. Everyone had a great night and the weather held off for us.
Our first game was a narrow 3-2 win against U9 opposition. We played some lovely football going forward, but tended to switch off when we lost the ball, which led to us conceding a couple of sloppy goals. Luke Allen, Sonny Best and Alec Horsfield got the goals in this game.
Game 2 was against Riverside Boys. As a result of some quick and positive play, we scored a number of goals in quick succession in the first half, which seemed to demoralise our opposition. To their credit, they came back well in the second half, only conceding one goal. Our scorers were Sonny Best (4), Alec Horsfied and Jack Pugh.
The final game was against Durham Athletic U8s. We were a bit too strong and skilful for them in all areas of the pitch, running out comfortable winners. Alec Horsfield scored a hat-trick, Luke Allen scored two, Sonny Best scored two and Jonny Langley and Jack Pugh got one each.
I was very pleased with the way things went – it certainly made a change from a standard training session. Hope you all enjoyed it as well.
PS Thanks to everyone who turned up early/stayed late to set up and dismantle the goals. Special thanks to Keith Horsfield who refereed all 3 games for us. He has asked me to collect £5 from every family to cover his match fees and travelling expenses!!!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 8s
Waldridge Park Tournament – 5th July 2008
Today, we played in our first tournament of the Summer (although you wouldn’t think so, judging by the weather!). We were drawn in a group of 4 teams, which included Waldridge Park Reds, Consett YMCA and Roker Boys.
In our first game against Waldridge, we played some excellent passing football and looked threatening throughout. Jack Pugh, making his long awaited debut for Riverside FC, opened the scoring with a well struck goal from outside the area and 2 further goals followed from Alec Horsfield and Sonny Best ensured that we got off to a winning start. We conceded a goal late on, which was well deserved after a determined performance by Waldridge. The final score was 3-1 to Riverside.
Our second game was against Roker Boys. This was a really good contest from start to finish. We fell a goal behind, but never gave up, and were rewarded when a series of corners led to an own goal by a Roker defender. The final score was 1-1. This was the first time we had gained a result against Roker, and further demonstrated the progress the boys are making.
Our final game was against Consett YMCA, a team who we have never come across. Despite losing the game 3-0, we put in a committed performance right to the final whistle. Some of the changes I made to the team’s formation probably didn’t help us in our search for the draw that would have got us into the semi-finals, but you need to try these things at some stage.
Overall, a great morning’s work for the lads, who all got plenty of football, and a bit of fresh air for our supporters! We play friendlies against Soccarena Milan, Soccarena Roma and Byers Green next Saturday morning at Durham City FC. See you there!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 8s
Friendlies – 12th July 2008
We played friendlies against Soccarena Milan, Soccarena Roma and Byers Breen today. The matches were all played at the excellent facilities of Durham City FC.
We played Soccarena Roma first. We have always had good games against Roma, so it was no surprise that this was a close affair. Sony Best put us into the lead with a well taken goal after breaking through to create a one against one with the ‘keeper, and there were plenty of examples of excellent passing football from our boys during the remainder of the match. Unfortunately, we got a bit over confident in the second half, overpassing in the heart of defence, which led to an equalising goal for Roma. Overall, 1-1 was probably the right result.
Our second game was against Soccarena Milan. We started slowly, conceding a goal early on, but it was good to see us respond quickly with a goal by Jonny Langley. We then fell behind again, only to reply through Luke Allen. In the second half, both teams had quite a few chances, but it was our opponents who got the vital goals that secured a 4-2 win for them.
Our final game was against Byers Green. This was another fine match, with lots of good passing and movement to admire. Luke Allen played in goal, keeping a clean sheet on his debut as a goalkeeper. Despite plenty of goalmouth incident (including a great one handed reaction save on the goal line by one of the Byers Green supporters!), the final score was 0-0.
I hope the boys and our supporters enjoyed today’s games. I certainly did, and was able to see quite a few players in positions and roles they wouldn’t normally get the chance to try. We hope to have some more friendlies next Friday (18th July) - I’ll confirm venue and timings in midweek.
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
17th May 2008
Riverside FC 0 Washington United 2
Our last match of the current season was a bit disappointing. Not because we lost, but because we didn’t really get into our stride and show what we can do. We should, however, give credit to Washington, who played very well on a difficult pitch in wet and slippy conditions.
We created some chances, with Craig Turnbull going particularly close in the first half, and we managed to force a series of corners (which we couldn’t lift as the ball was rock hard!). Will Dixon played really well in defence and Sam Rowell continued his good recent form with a number of excellent saves.He couldn’t be faulted for either of the Washington goals.
We finish the season with 20 points from 21 games, in 6th place in the league. Most importantly, I think the players have really come on individually and as a team. Thanks to everyone for your continued support – the boys really appreciate it. Training will continue throughout the summer months (5pm on Fridays at the Hermitage and 10am on Sundays at Chester Park) unless you are informed otherwise.
Almost everybody had gone when I realised I hadn’t taken a photo this week, so here is a snap of the only two players that were left!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
15th May 2008
Riverside FC 0 Soccarena Milan 0
This eagerly anticipated game was anything but a typical 0-0 draw. It was a well contested match, between two teams who know each other very well, having been in the same league since September. Early in the season we used to dread playing Milan, and on one or two occasions they have shown us how it should be done. On the evidence of tonight’s game we have certainly caught them up, and that is a great credit to how much progress our boys have made in the last few months.
In my opinion, Riverside played some of their best football tonight. They passed the ball well, took on shots when chances arose and defended extremely well all over the pitch. Most pleasing was the way that the players are starting to show signs of positional awareness – at last they are starting to spread out when we have the ball. In some respects, it’s a shame that the season is ending now, but I suppose a rest from competitive games for a few weeks won’t do the boys too much harm!
We created a number of half chances tonight, but nothing that was gilt edged. On another day we might have scored a couple (Liam’s free kick went close, and he delivered some dangerous corners; Luke and Alec both went close). Having said that, hearts were in mouths when the tallest Milan player had a free header from a corner which was well blocked by Jonny, and Sam came out from his goal with a well-timed clearance in the last minute to deny Milan’s best player the winning goal.
Our last match is on Saturday against Washington United, kicking off at 9am. Let’s hope we can finish on a high note! See you all there.
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
10th May 2008
Riverside FC 1 Byers Green 0
Riverside FC 2 Swalwell Swifts 0
In my report last week, I said that the sign of a good team is how well they respond after a disappointment. I was delighted with the way everybody got on with things today, and am really excited about the future of our team.
A great little team!
Our first game, against a much improved Byers Green, finished in a 1-0 win. Byers Green have ground out some good results recently (they drew 0-0 with Roker before playing us) and this was never going to be as easy a game as some people might have thought. Liam Lowes struck a very powerful free kick for our goal, and good goalkeeping from Sam and Will, along with some disciplined defending, ensured that we picked up our first win for a while.
Our scorers against Swalwell
Just like waiting for a bus, our second win followed straight away! This was an even more impressive performance, as Swalwell were possibly the top team in the division on recent form, having just drawn with SAFC 24/7 and beaten Roker. We never allowed them to settle on the ball, with the midfield working really hard up and down the pitch. Sam looked really confident in goal, never allowing anything dangerous to develop, and Will and Liam did a great job in defence against two giant strikers. It was a great day for Craig Turnbull who opened the scoring with his first ever goal for Riverside FC following a determined run and powerful shot from close range. Luke Allen scored the second goal that made the game safe, with a composed finish after a good turn in the penalty box.
Best performances so far in goal
Thanks to our supporters and players for waiting so patiently between games. I hope you all felt it was time well spent in the end! Our next match is on Saturday 17th May at Downhill Sports Complex in Sunderland, kicking off at 9am against Washington United. I’m currently trying to arrange our other remaining match against Soccarena Milan and will confirm venues and timings as soon as I have them. With two games to play and six points available, I am still confident that we can climb higher up the league table!! Have a good week.
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
3rd May 2008
Riverside FC 1 Swalwell Swifts 2
Riverside FC 1 Washington United 3
We were delighted to return to the Archibald Stadium this week – unfortunately, our results weren’t as good as we had hoped for!
We started the first game, against Swalwell, very sloppily, conceding a fairly poor goal in the first minute. To our credit, we battled back well, equalising through Alec Horsfield after a goalmouth scramble following a corner. From this point on, I thought we dictated most of the play, and apart from one Swalwell player with a very powerful shot, I thought we were the more likely to go on and win it. Will Dixon made a couple of very good saves in the second half, as did their keeper on a number of occasions, and it seemed that the game would finish as a draw – but no! In the last minute, we failed to clear a corner and the ball was scrambled in to deny us a point. I hope the boys have learnt that you need to concentrate right to the end of the game.
The second game started in a similar way to the first – we left their striker in acres of space and he smashed a goal in the first minute. We were 2-0 down at half time, and hadn’t really started to play. The second half was more promising, with us showing the determination and enthusiasm everybody expects from Riverside FC. Sonny Best scored to keep his recent goalscoring run going, and I thought we might be able to salvage something from the game. Unfortunately, Washington managed a third goal, which effectively killed off the game.
They say that the sign of a good team is how they respond to disappointing results. I can’t wait for next week!!!!
Please note – we now don’t have a midweek match on Wednesday, as Swalwell are unavailable. I understand that we are due to play two matches on 10th May and two on the 17th May to finish off the season. I’ll confirm venues and timings as soon as I have them. Have a good week!!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
28th April 2008
Riverside FC 0 Roker Boys 2
This was a new experience for us all – a league match on a Monday night? I thought the Sky cameras might have been there to film us!
We finished up on the wrong end of a 2-0 scoreline, but I am a bit baffled as to how we didn’t take something from the game. I thought we were vastly better than against Soccarena Roma on Saturday, with Liam, Craig and Will concentrating well in defence. Sonny, Jonny and Alec all played very well in midfield, creating some excellent chances and never allowing Roker to settle into a rhythm and Luke went very close to scoring after a strong second half display. Sam made a couple of good saves, but in all honesty he didn’t have too much to do apart from the goals, which he couldn’t be blamed for. As I told the lads at the end of the game, sometimes you have matches like that! I also said that if we continue to battle and work hard as a team, we’ll have no problem getting enough points from our last six games to keep us in with a shout of top division football in September.
See you all on Friday – don’t forget to bring back your re-registration forms and your presentation party reply slip and money please. Have a good week!!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
26th April 2008
Riverside FC 1 SAFC 24/7 1
Riverside FC 0 Soccarena Roma 1
This week we definitely experienced the highs and lows of football!!!
The first game against SAFC 24/7 was an absolute corker. Some fantastic football was played by both teams. After creating a number of good chances through quick and accurate passing, we conceded to a long range effort that nestled right into the bottom corner. However, we showed great character and determination through the second half, creating a number of clear chances. Eventually, Sonny put us back on level terms with an absolute screamer into the top corner after good build up play. There was still time for chances at both ends, and Sam was forced into some good saves to ensure that we picked up a point. At the final whistle we were very pleased to be the first team to take points from SAFC 24/7 this season.
The second game was against Soccarena Roma. We started very slowly and were not really at our best until late in the half, when we began to create a few openings. Unfortunately, we switched off too many times defensively, allowing Roma to get one against one with our goalkeeper and it was no surprise when they eventually took one of their chances. The goal seemed to rally us, and we made 2 or 3 very good chances, but were unable to finish them off. To give the boys credit, they battled all the way to the whistle, never giving up.
With seven games left to play (2 against Swalwell, 2 against Washington plus Roker Boys, Byers Green and Soccarena Milan), I am confident that we can pick up enough good results to give us a league position that reflects how much we have improved over the last few months.
No photos this week – I was too excited by the SAFC 24/7 result and forgot to take one after the Roma game!
Have a good week
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
5th April 2008
Riverside FC 0 SAFC 24/7 1
Riverside FC 2 Byers Green 0
Different venue – same attitude! As we played our first league matches on the grass pitches at Nissan, the lads turned in two more outstanding performances.
The first game was against the league leaders, SAFC 24/7, who currently have a 100% win record. We battled hard throughout the game, only to concede in the last minute! However, we will take great confidence from the fact that we got so close to being the first team to take points from them this season.
The second game was against Byers Green. We continued where we had left off in the first game, battling for every ball and then trying to pass at every opportunity. Good link up play between Jonny and Sonny led to a well taken goal for Luke, which was quickly followed up with a goal for Sonny (his second in consecutive weeks). All of the players deserve credit for such a confident display on quite a difficult surface.
Training at Chester Park will not take place on 13th April, as I’m on holiday. Apart from this session, all other training takes place as normal. Please note that we will always be outside at The Hermitage from 5pm on Fridays from now on. Have a good week!!!
Craig
Riverside FC U7 Match reports for 29th March 2008
Today we played against both of the Soccarena teams, Milan and Roma.
Riverside FC 1 Soccarena Milan 1
Riverside FC 0 Soccarena Roma 0
The first game, against Soccarena Milan was a real cracker! Both sides had plenty of chances throughout the game, but it was Milan who pressed most in the first half, forcing a couple of great saves from Sam. Unfortunately for us, the pressure paid off just on half time, with a well struck goal direct from a corner. The second half saw Riverside produce a really determined and gutsy performance, with the lads chasing every ball. We created a number of good chances, with some excellent passing taking place, but our equaliser came at the end of a powerful dribble and a well placed shot by Sonny Best. This was his first goal for the club, but I’m sure it won’t be his last! The final score was 1-1 and although this only gains us one point for the league, I think the performance showed how far we have come in recent weeks.
One of our stars of the day
The second game was a more scrappy affair, mainly due to the increasing wind that was swirling around the pitch. Again, the effort and commitment was fantastic from all of the Riverside boys, ensuring that we picked up another valuable point. Roma came close in the first half, hitting our crossbar, but we also had some reasonable chances. The second half didn’t see too many shots from either team, with the exception of a cracking effort by Roma in the last minute which was superbly saved by our second half goalkeeper, Will Dixon.
The venue changes to Nissan next week, on grass pitches. Our kick-off times are also slightly later, with the first game at 9am and the second at 9.50am. I’ll be at the park on Sunday morning at 10am, as usual, and please note that Friday 4th April is our last indoor training session at The Hermitage. After this, we’ll be training at the same times at The Hermitage, but outside on the grass. We will continue training during the school holidays. Have a good week!!
Craig
The team after 2 more hard earned points gained!
Riverside FC Under 7s
Another great morning of football, even if we did get an icy reminder of how cold March can be in the north east! We picked up a point against Byers Green in a 0-0 draw, and narrowly lost 1-0 to Roker Boys. I couldn’t fault any of the team – everyone gave 100% through both games, and that’s all I can ask.
The first game saw us re-united with our old rivals from before Xmas, Byers Green. As we have made so much progress, I expect us to win when we play them. This wasn’t always the case. We went very close today, although we did have to survive a couple of late scares as they pressed for the winner. Sam made a very good save to keep a clean sheet. On this showing, we should look forward to our next two games against Byers Green with confidence.
The boys after 2 tough matches in the icy winds!
The second game was a great game to watch, with plenty of chances and some good saves from both goalkeepers. The Roker keeper made 2 or 3 outstanding saves (particularly from Sony and Liam) to deny us a goal. He was probably the best keeper I have seen in this league so far. The level of determination from our boys was outstanding, and if they can keep this effort up, I am confident that we will pick up enough points to finish near the top half of the table.
See you all at training at Chester Park on Sunday morning, 10-11am. Indoor training is back on at The Hermitage on Friday. Have a good week!!!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
That’s what it’s all about! Even if we hadn’t won both matches this morning, I would have been delighted with the effort, enthusiasm and skill shown by EVERY player throughout the whole of both games.
The first game was against Swalwell Swifts. Like everyone else in our league, they are a good side, with lots of strong players. In a closely contested match, Alec Horsfield’s well struck goal direct from a corner was the difference between the two sides. Some outstanding defending and good saves (one from Will Dixon that was out of this world!) meant that we were able to see out a 1-0 win. Mind you. We weren’t just hanging on, and only a couple of good saves from the Swalwell goalkeeper prevented Luke Allen from scoring.
Surely we couldn’t win two in a row? Well, we did! Washington United played in a very similar fashion to us, trying to keep the ball on the floor and passing at every opportunity. There wasn’t a lot between the two sides until Jonny Langley unleashed a powerful left footed shot from just outside the box to open the scoring. The game continued in a tight, competitive fashion, with Washington hitting the post and going close on a couple of occasions, but a great run out of defence by Sonny Best, with a perfect through pass at the end enabled Luke Allen to coolly slot home his first goal for the club.
Two of today’s goalscorers
We all understand that we won’t win every match, and we shouldn’t get carried away on the basis of a couple of good results, but this morning justified all the efforts we have all been putting in over the last few months. The boys’ skills and understanding are getting better every week, and most importantly they are all enjoying themselves!
A happy team after 2 wins
No training at Hermitage next Friday, as it is a Bank Holiday. Training at Chester Park will continue every week, 10-11am on Sunday mornings. Have a good week!!!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
Our first game this week was against SAFC 24/7. Despite losing the game 4-0, there were a number of positives to take from the game. Without exception, everybody really got stuck in, with lots of good tackling and passing. We tried to pass the ball along the floor at every opportunity and kept going with maximum effort for the entire duration of the game. To be fair, a couple of the opposition’s goals were really well struck, but even then, I’m not sure that the final score was an entirely fair reflection on the game. Our second match was against Soccarena Roma. Again, we tried to pass the ball as much as possible, creating 3 or 4 good chances throughout the game. Unfortunately, we got caught in possession a couple of times, which led to goals, leaving the final score as 2-0. As we all know, this is a tough league and we’ll need to be on our best form to pick up points. The experience of playing against good sides every week can only help us improve and I’m really looking forward to next week’s games against Swalwell Swifts and Washington United. Training takes place at Chester Park, 10-11am on Sunday morning and at The Hermitage, 5-6pm on Friday. Have a good week!!!
Craig
Riverside FC Under 7s
It was great to be back playing again this weekend, even if we do now have very early kick off times! Conditions weren’t great either, with freezing cold, gale force winds. Anyway, in our first match against our old rivals, Soccarena Milan, we put in a really strong performance, but eventually lost the game 1-0. Most people who watched the match, including the Milan coach and some of their supporters, thought this was the toughest game we had ever given them. Sonny Best made a really good impression on his debut, being heavily involved in almost all areas of the game.
The boys, all wrapped up between games
The second game was against Roker Boys. We took the lead through a well taken goal from Kaine Harper, but were eventually beaten 3-1 after a strong second half display from our opponents. This looks like it will be a tough league to play in, but I know that we will rise to the challenge. Thanks to everyone who got out of bed so early to come and cheer us on – it is much appreciated! Special thanks to Mike Rowell for keeping the Manager’s seat warm, as I couldn’t be at the games. See you all at training on Friday.
PS If there is anyone that would like to look after an additional U7 team, please give me a ring for a chat – the sooner we can get things in place, the better.
Craig
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 8th December 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Durham County (drew 0-0)
This was a good, competitive game. There were good chances at both ends, with Sam Rowell making one really good save and a few last ditch tackles from Liam, Scott, Will and Jonny. Jordan was a little bit poorly this week, but he did really well in goal for the second half. The Durham County keeper also had to work hard, making good saves from Craig, Kaine and Liam. In the end, 0-0 was a fair result.
Match 2 versus Coxhoe United (won 2-0)
A great way to finish the season! This was a well contested match, with lots of determined play from both teams. We went ahead rather fortunately near the end of the first half, when a Coxhoe defender knocked Liam’s long throw past his own goalkeeper. Nathan came on and did well as a striker in the 2nd half and James also played well in defence and when moved up the pitch as a striker. Jonny made the game safe with a well taken goal midway through the 2nd half and we comfortably held on for the victory.
Thanks to everyone who has supported the boys this season – I know that they have really appreciated it.
By my reckoning, we finished 3rd in the league with 56 points – very satisfying!
We’ll be training every Friday night (apart from school holidays) until the new season starts in March, with an extra session on Sunday mornings, 10-11am at Chester Park from 30th December onwards.
What are we going to do to fill our Saturday mornings for the next few weeks?????
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 8th December 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Durham County (drew 0-0)
This was a good, competitive game. There were good chances at both ends, with Sam Rowell making one really good save and a few last ditch tackles from Liam, Scott, Will and Jonny. Jordan was a little bit poorly this week, but he did really well in goal for the second half. The Durham County keeper also had to work hard, making good saves from Craig, Kaine and Liam. In the end, 0-0 was a fair result.
Match 2 versus Coxhoe United (won 2-0)
A great way to finish the season! This was a well contested match, with lots of determined play from both teams. We went ahead rather fortunately near the end of the first half, when a Coxhoe defender knocked Liam’s long throw past his own goalkeeper. Nathan came on and did well as a striker in the 2nd half and James also played well in defence and when moved up the pitch as a striker. Jonny made the game safe with a well taken goal midway through the 2nd half and we comfortably held on for the victory.
Thanks to everyone who has supported the boys this season – I know that they have really appreciated it.
By my reckoning, we finished 3rd in the league with 56 points – very satisfying!
We’ll be training every Friday night (apart from school holidays) until the new season starts in March, with an extra session on Sunday mornings, 10-11am at Chester Park from 30th December onwards.
What are we going to do to fill our Saturday mornings for the next fewweeks?????
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 1st December 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Bowburn FC (won 3-0)
A tough game was anticipated, due to Bowburn’s recent improvement in form, but a great team effort saw us finish as 3-0 winners. Liam Lowes opened the scoring with a well taken goal and this was followed up shortly afterwards by a Jonny Langley goal (his first for the team!). The pressure continued right throughout the game, with us getting lots of shots on target. James Lydon finished off the scoring in the second half. Overall, this was a very pleasing team performance.
Match 2 versus Lumley FC (won 1-0)
As ever, this was a very well contested encounter. There really has been little to choose between ourselves and Lumley this season – maybe our extra determination just gave us the edge today? In the end, the game was decided by a good strike from Alec Horsfield. His shot may well have crossed the line anyway, but the fact that the Lumley goalkeeper was distracted by something on the adjacent pitch certainly didn’t help him. Another great team effort!
With 2 games remaining before our mid season break we are really pleased with the progress the team has made. Our results today have guaranteed us a top 3 finish, which is a great achievement for a team that has only recently come together - Still in 3rd place with 52 points.
Look forward to seeing you all next week, as we aim to finish on a positive note against Durham County and Coxhoe United.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 24th November 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Soccarena Milan (lost 0-1)
Playing one of the top teams was never going to be an easy game, but nevertheless we gave a real good challenge. In the first couple of minutes, Soccarena Milan took full control of the ball; bombarding our goalkeeper (Sam) with more than just a few strikes! However Sam made 3 or 4 excellent saves but unfortunately one sneaked in from another nearby player. The 2nd half was a better game, as we fought hard to come back with an equaliser, where Liam had a good chance but unluckily hit the crossbar.
Match 2 versus Byers Green (won 1-0)
This game was with the actual top team, so nerves were running high, especially after losing the previous game. With sheer determination from both sides, there was a lot of action up and down the pitch, but no shots were getting through both teams defences. It was only in the 1st half, after a free kick to us, that Liam scored an amazing goal; heading straight over their wall and goalkeeper into the top part of the net, giving us the lead that we wanted! Following this, the team defended their lead exceptionally well in the 2nd half by keeping Byers Green on their feet, leaving no room for an equaliser, knocking Byers Green down to 2nd Place.
Well done everyone for the fantastic results against the top two teams – We are still sticking in 3rd place with a slightly decreasing gap between us and 2nd place.
With only 2 more weeks (4 matches) left, we play Bowburn and Lumley next Saturday and Durham County and Coxhoe on our last week.
Have a good week and see you all at training next Friday.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 17th November 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Lumley FC (won 1-0)
This was a tough game, which was well contested, and both teams had chances to win the game. Our goalkeepers (Sam and Jordan) produced some excellent saves to ensure that we took all 3 points. Liam Lowes gets the credit for our goal, after a long range shot somehow managed to squeeze past the unfortunate Lumley goalkeeper. Will Dixon did very well in a man to man marking role against Lumley’s most dangerous player and there were other good performances from Craig Turnbull and Scott Montgomery. This win keeps some daylight between us in 3rd place and Lumley in 4th.
Match 2 versus Birtley FC (drew 0-0)
Another excellent contest between two very well matched teams. To be honest, this wasn’t much of a spectacle, as both sides huffed and puffed to try to break the deadlock. Once again, Sam made one or two very good saves to keep us in the game, particularly when coming out to save in a 1v1 situation just before half time. Quite a few of our players seemed to be suffering a little bit in the cold conditions (thermal vests and gloves next week!) and it was a relief to hear the final whistle which signalled another good point in the bank.
We play Byers Green and Soccarena Milan next Saturday, knowing that good results can push us back into the title race.
Have a good week and see you all at training next Friday.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 10th November 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Coxhoe United (won 3-0)
One good game, slow at first but progressed to an explosive second half. There was lots of running around with no shots from either side (probably to keep warm!) then Alec Horsfield broke free from the group and scored our 1st goal in the first half. Just as the second half set to, we received a free kick, where Liam Lowes took a fabulous long range kick, straight on target, giving us our 2nd goal. With all players on form, it was not long before the 3rd goal, again from Alec Horsfield. Sam Rowell (Goalkeeper) made two excellent saves and James Lydon just missed out on another goal. A great result for the 1st game of the day.
Match 2 versus Durham County (won 2-1)
Another exciting game with sheer determination displayed from both sides. Kaine Harper took the 1st goal of the game, with a cracking shot. In the second half, Durham County equalised, with the possibility of another goal a few minutes later, which Jordan Hartshorne deflected. With a last bit of willpower and good team spirits, Alec Horsfield scored the winning goal, giving us the 2-1 lead to win the game.
Well done everyone, another two good matches – Hope we play just as good next week, when we play Lumley and Birtley.
Good News! We are still 3rd place with 39 points.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 3rd November 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Bowburn Youth FC (won 2-0)
After last week’s disappointments, this was the perfect way to bounce back with a confident win. Alec Horsfield was back on form, scoring both goals in addition to some good contributions from the whole team. Most noticeable was the determination to win the ball back quickly whenever possession had been lost. James Lydon made a good contribution, trying out the new position of defender and Craig Turnbull continued his great progress with an excellent game in midfield. I was also pleased with Nathan Stephenson’s contribution, as he continues to grow in confidence. Both goalkeepers (Sam and Jordan) coped comfortably with everything that was required of them, keeping a clean sheet. Well done to everyone!
Match 2 versus Byers Green (lost 0-1)
A real determined effort by the whole team, but we were very unfortunate to lose this match to a long range effort – a draw might have been a fairer reflection of the game. Jonny Langley and Liam Lowes were full of energy in midfield and Will Dixon was exceptional in defence. Kaine Harper was very busy as a striker/midfielder, never allowing the opposition to settle on the ball, whilst Scott Montgomery was very reliable in defence, making some good interceptions and tackles.
This was more like it boys! - Still 3rd place in the league table with 33 points.
Well done – I hope you are all looking forward to next week, when we play Coxhoe and Durham County.
PS. Nice shot of Alan in the background of this week’s photo!
Riverside FC Under 7’s Match reports for Saturday 27th October 2007
Match 1 versus Soccarena Milan (lost 0-3)
A disappointing result after recording 4 straight wins, but probably a fair reflection of the game. With the exception of one or two players (Liam was in very good form again), we never really got into our stride during this match and didn’t cause enough problems for their defenders or goalkeeper. The second half was, however, an improvement on the first half and James Lydon was unfortunate not to get a goal back for us when it was 2-0.
Match 2 versus Birtley Town (lost 0-1)
The players showed a more determined approach for this game and were very unlucky to lose by a single goal. Liam hit the post with an excellent free kick and there were a number of other good chances that just wouldn’t cross the line. Birtley were limited to a handful of chances, but did manage to squeeze one away for the winner. A very exciting game – a bit disappointing to lose again, but we should give credit to Birtley who looked a much stronger team since the addition of some new players. We look forward to playing them again in a few weeks time!
Thanks again to our supporters - next week we’ll be looking to bounce back when we play Bowburn and Byers Green.
Have a good week!
Riverside FC Under 7’s Match reports for Saturday 20th October 2007
Match 1 versus Durham County (won 3-1)
Liam Lowes got us on our way with a firmly struck penalty, following a handball. Alec Horsfield continued his good goalscoring run with the second, just before half time. The team played very well, passing forward with accuracy and taking up some good supporting positions. James Lydon was unlucky not to score after taking up some good positions as our lone striker, but he eventually got his reward with a well struck goal in the closing minutes. We conceded a sloppy goal right at the final whistle after failing to clear the ball from our penalty area. Overall, a very pleasing team performance.
A happy team - two wins takes us up to 2nd in the league!
Match 2 versus Coxhoe United (won 3-0)
Liam scored a good solo goal midway through the first half, and after this the team settled down to play some nice football. The defending of the whole team was excellent, with Coxhoe barely getting near our goal. Two further goals for Alec sealed a comfortable win and a very enjoyable morning.
Thanks to our supporters for coming along - same arrangements again next week, when we play Soccarena Milan and Birtley Town.
Have a good week!
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 13th October 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Bowburn FC (won 2-0)
A bit of a scrappy game really, but we were very determined with our defending and made enough chances to justify our win, with Alec Horsfield scoring both of our goals.
Everybody got a game, with Nathan Stephenson and Scott Montgomery performing really well when they had their turn on the pitch, but a special mention is due for Sam Rowell, who made his debut in goal, keeping a clean sheet – well done!
Match 2 versus Lumley FC (won 1-0)
This was a really tight match, which was fiercely contested by both teams. Great defending by Will Dixon and Liam Lowes meant that Sam Rowell and Jordan Hartshorne (our goalkeepers) were well protected throughout the game. Jonny Langley and Alec Horsfield were great in midfield, chasing anywhere the ball went and our strikers, Kaine Harper, Craig Turnbull and James Lydon always threatened on the break. Another goal by Alec Horsfield just before half time was enough to ensure the win, which will lift us back into the top part of the league table.
Great news! We are currently back at 3rd place in the league table with 24 points. Well done to all of the players and thanks to our supporters for their usual enthusiasm.
Thanks very much to Keith Turnbull for also sponsoring the team, which is much appreciated. See the sponsor’s logo on the back of our rain jackets – Very Nice!
Quick Reminder
Have a good week and don’t forget its indoor training at the Hermitage next Friday, 5-6pm. Trainers and shin pads needed.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 6th October 2007 - Results
Match 1 - Riverside FC versus Soccarena Milan (0-0)
A really well contested game between two well matched teams. Both teams defended very well and there were lots of good tackles. Clear cut chances were limited, but both goalkeepers did everything that was required of them. This was probably a fair reflection of a very enjoyable game.
Match 2 - Riverside FC versus Byers Green (0-1)
Another truly close game, with lots of good play to admire from both teams. In the end though, Byers Green managed to scramble quite a messy goal, which turned out to be the difference between the teams.
Overall, we acquitted ourselves very well against the only two teams above us in our league and we are confident that we will get some good results next week when we play Bowburn and Lumley.
After these two tough games, we are currently back at 4th place in the league table with 18 points, but hopefully after next weeks games, this will all change and we will resume our position back in the top 3! 
Reminder for your Diaries
Don’t forget to clear your diaries for our end of season party at Chicago Rock Café, Chester le Street, on Saturday 15th December, 3-5pm. Players will get a buffet and the full party works – parents, families and supporters can have a drink or food, as they choose.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 29th September 2007 - Results
Match 1 versus Lumley FC (3-2)
A cracking match, which we eventually won 3-2 following a great last minute strike by Alec Horsfield.
In the first half we had taken the lead through a goal by Liam Lowes from a very tight angle, but were pegged back by Lumley FC’s goal, scored direct from the second half restart. Despite some debate about the legality of such a tactic, most of us were pretty sure it had hit our goalkeeper on the way in, so it was all academic anyway! Lumley then took the lead with a second goal from a very well struck corner and it looked like we’d be leaving the game with nothing. But no! Liam fired in another excellent corner which scrambled across the goal line making it a draw, then just before the end, Alec drove in a superb shot from 15 metres out, sending our supporters wild.
An excellent game with everything you could ask for in terms of excitement and entertainment!
Match 2 versus Birtley Town FC (3-1)
This was a well contested game, which we eventually won 3-1. Alec Horsfield scored all 3 goals and on this form he is now making a serious dent in Mam and Dad’s savings (he’s on a cash bonus for goals!). Everyone did really well, sticking to their jobs and staying focused right throughout the game - Well done!
This was the first time that we have won both of our games in one week, so we all went home very happy, knowing that we are creeping up towards the top of the table, hopefully to be in the top three.
We have a couple of tough games next week against Byers Green and Soccarena Milan, so your support will be much appreciated.
PS. Didn’t the strips look nice with our sponsor’s logo?
Thanks to Andrea for making her kind donation – I know that the kids will benefit from the investment in the months ahead.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 22nd September 2007 - Results
Match 1 - Riverside FC v Coxhoe United (3-1)
A good 3-1 win for the team in their first match of the day, with goals from Craig Turnbull, James Lydon and Alec Horsfield. Overall, the whole team played extremely well and looked very confident.
Match 2 - Durham County v Riverside FC (0-0)
This was a tight affair which finished 0-0 (probably a good reflection of the game). Goalkeeper Alec Horsfield was well protected by his defenders and pulled off a very good save to keep the score at 0-0, earning us a valuable point. Our main threat to Durham County came from a series of excellent corners taken by Liam Lowes and near the end of the match; we were very unlucky not to score when Jordan Hartshorne and Sam Rowell made a break.
With six games now under our belt, we are currently 4th place in the league table with 11 points.
Look forward to seeing our usual support next Saturday, when we play Lumley FC and Birtley Town. Have a good week!
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 15th September 2007 - Results
Riverside FC v Bowburn Youth FC (3-0)
The team played exceptionally well in this match with goals scored by Craig Turnbull, James Lydon and Kaine Harper. The teams Goalkeeper, Jordan Hartshorne also did very well to keep another clean sheet.
Riverside FC v Byers Green (0-2)
In a hard fought and close match, the team went down 0-2. To be truthful, this wasn’t one of the team’s better performances of the season. Nevertheless everybody tried really hard on the day and the team look forward to the return match in a few weeks time.
Thanks again to all of the teams supporters. See you next week, same time, same place for hopefully some more good results which will be against Coxhoe United and Durham County.
Just a quick reminder
Training is now from 5-6pm every week at The Hermitage and we don’t move indoors for a few more weeks, so football boots are still required.
Russell Foster u8’s Development League - Red Division
Archibald Stadium, Durham
Saturday, 8th September 2007 - Results
Riverside FC v Soccarena Milan (2-2)
Both goals scored by Alec Horsfield direct from free kicks, with the equaliser coming within the last kick of the game! Overall the boys showed real determination to come back from behind on two occasions.
Riverside FC v Birtley Town FC (3-0)
Goals scored by James Lydon, Alec Horsfied and Kaine Harper. An excellent all round performance, with some good tackling and passing throughout the team. A special mention goes to Jordan Hartshorne, who kept a clean sheet and made some very good saves on only his second match in goal. Well done!
To date this puts us 3rd place in the Red Division league table.
Thanks again to all of our supporters. See you next week, same time, same place for hopefully another good result which will be against Bowburn Youth FC and Byers Green.
The Riverside FC Under 7’s played in their first tournament on Saturday, 1st September 2007, being the Russell Foster Youth League Under 8’s Development Tournament held at Pennywell, Sunderland.
The day went very well for the team with some great results.
First Group Match - Riverside v Byers Green (2-1)
The first group match against Byers Green was won with 2 fantastic goals, scored by Liam Lowes and Kaine Harper.
Second Group Match - Riverside v Houghton Boys (0-1)
The second group match against Houghton Boys wasn’t won, however the team defended extremely well against the opposition, thus the 0 -1 score.
Third Group Match - Riverside v Durham County (1-0)
The third group match against Durham County was automatically won, as they forfeit the game.
Just missing out on the quarter finals, the team played exceptionally well with amazing support from parents, grandparents, other relatives and friends.
Thank you all for your kind support and efforts on the day and hope to see you all at the Archibald’s Stadium for our first league matches.
